Foods to Control Blood Sugar

Diabetes occurs when the body fails to process blood sugar correctly, resulting in high glucose levels. Although the volume of sugar in the bloodstream varies throughout the day, normal levels of fasting glucose fall between 70 and 100 mg/dL. Blood sugar feeds the brain, tissues and the nervous system; without appropriate blood sugar levels, humans could not function. Due to the importance of stable blood sugar levels, it is important for diabetics to not only medically treat their diabetes, but to also pay strict attention to their diet.

Oatmeal

Unsweetened oatmeal may stabilize blood sugar

Although individuals with diabetes should avoid carbohydrates such as white bread, unsweetened oatmeal is a healthy carbohydrate for diabetes patients. Due to its high content of soluble fiber, oatmeal is slower to digest and will not raise a person's blood sugar as much or as fast as other carbohydrates such as white bread. Because oatmeal is slower to digest, it makes people feel fuller longer, and thus can assist with weight loss, an important element in stabilizing diabetes. Oatmeal also has the added benefits of preventing types of colon cancer and heart attacks.

Strawberries

Strawberries are high in fiber and low in carbohydrates.

Strawberries are rich in Vitamin K, riboflavin, magnesium and folic acid. This range of nutrients provide good dietary benefits that have minimal impact on the body's blood sugar levels. Strawberries are also low in calories and carbohydrates, which make them healthier snacks for diabetics than cookies or candy bars. Because strawberries are high in fiber and water, they make people feel fuller longer, which will also assist with maintaining a healthy weight.

Non Starchy Vegetables

Non starchy vegetables, such as broccoli, have been found to have positive effects in controlling blood sugar levels.

Non starchy vegetables include broccoli, spinach and green beans. These vegetables are low in carbohydrates and high in fiber, which make them ideal for diabetics. On August 5, 2008, BBC reported researchers from the University of Warwick discovered the significant effects broccoli can have on diabetes, including its positive effects in controlling blood sugar levels. The researchers also found broccoli protects cells and tissues from damage caused by diabetes. Furthermore, spinach not only has a low glycemic count, but it contains magnesium, which is associated with lower type 2 diabetes risk.

Salmon and Lean Meats

Salmon and other lean meats promote the efficiency of insulin.

Salmon and meats such as skinless chicken breasts, lean beef and turkey contain a high protein content and do not effect blood sugar levels as much as carbohydrates. However, meat is a source of chromium, a mineral that promotes the ability of insulin to function properly. These lean meats also take more time to digest, which helps in the slow release of glucose into the bloodstream. Fish rich in omega-3 fatty acids also promote heart health, which is important to diabetics since approximately 65 percent of diabetics die from either a heart attack or stroke.